The Great Horned Owl, one of the most common owls in North America, doesn't construct its own nest. Instead, these owls claim old hawk nests or random tree hollows. How can you spot them? They often have piercing yellow eyes and a deep hooting voice. The owls can snag larger prey, but also enjoy eating mice, scorpions, and frogs.
Their strong talons make them powerful predators. It would take 28 pounds of pressure to force one of their talons open. They also have soft feathers that help them fly quietly as they look for prey and keep them warm during the winter months. The oldest Great Horned Owl lived to be 28-years-old. Earlier this month, a pair of Great Horned Owls laid their eggs at the entrance of Brazos Bend State Park.
“How can you tell if there are Great Horned Owls near you? In spring, listen for their deep hoots: ‘Who’s awake? Me too….” jokes Kelsey Low, Adult Programs Manager at the Houston Arboretum.
